Elementar rapid MAX N exceed Dumas Nitrogen Determinator
| Brand | Elementar |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Instrument Type | Dumas Combustion Method |
| Automation Level | Fully Automated Nitrogen Analyzer |
| Measurement Range | 0–500 mg absolute nitrogen or 0–100 % N |
| Repeatability | ±0.05 % absolute (at 250 mg glutamic acid) |
| Sample Mass Capacity | ≤5 g solid or ≤5 mL liquid |
| Recovery Rate | ≥99.5 % |
| Power Supply | 100/110/200/230 V, 50/60 Hz, 1.8 kW |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 55 × 55 × 61 cm (including autosampler) |
Overview
The Elementar rapid MAX N exceed is a high-throughput, fully automated Dumas combustion-based nitrogen determinator engineered for precision, robustness, and regulatory compliance in routine and reference laboratories. It implements the classical Dumas principle—quantitative high-temperature oxidative combustion (≥1,100 °C) of organic samples in an oxygen-rich atmosphere, followed by catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides to molecular nitrogen (N₂), separation via gas chromatography, and detection using a high-stability thermal conductivity detector (TCD). Unlike Kjeldahl digestion, this method eliminates hazardous reagents (e.g., concentrated H₂SO₄, Se catalysts), avoids toxic waste generation, and requires no glassware cleaning or manual distillation. The entire analysis—including sample weighing, combustion, gas cleanup, separation, and quantification—is completed in under 5 minutes per sample, enabling up to 300 determinations per 24-hour cycle with full unattended operation.
Key Features
- EAS REGAINER® technology: Regenerates the EAS REDUCTOR® catalyst in situ without interrupting analysis—enabling >1,000 consecutive analyses without manual maintenance or consumable replacement.
- Vertical crucible loading system: Optimized for both solids and liquids (e.g., milk, beer, soy sauce, fruit juice); prevents spattering and ensures complete combustion across heterogeneous matrices.
- Secondary combustion zone: Eliminates matrix-related interferences (e.g., halogens, sulfur, phosphorus) by ensuring complete oxidation prior to reduction—delivering consistent accuracy regardless of sample origin.
- Argon carrier gas standard (helium optional): Minimizes operational cost while maintaining baseline stability and detector sensitivity; compatible with laboratory-grade argon supply systems.
- Integrated autosampler with 120-position carousel: Supports batch processing with programmable sample order, weight normalization, and duplicate/standard insertion logic.
- Robust architecture: All critical components—including furnace, catalyst beds, and GC column—are housed in thermally stabilized compartments to ensure long-term calibration stability and reproducibility.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The rapid MAX N exceed is validated for diverse sample categories requiring nitrogen or protein quantification—including dairy products (milk, cheese, whey), cereals and flours, animal feed, pet food, fertilizers, dietary supplements, and beverages. Its design adheres to global regulatory frameworks governing food safety and agricultural testing. The instrument meets or exceeds performance criteria specified in ISO 16634-1 (food and feed), ISO 16634-2 (cereals), ISO 14891 (milk), ICC 167 (wheat), EBC 9.9.1 (beer), AOAC Official Methods 990.03, 992.15, 992.23, and 993.13, as well as Chinese national standards GB 5009.5-2010 (food), GB 29518-2013 (urea-ammonium nitrate solutions), GB/T 24318-2009 (feed), and SNT 2115-2008 (import/export inspection). Data integrity complies with GLP and GMP requirements; audit trails, user access control, and electronic signatures are supported via optional software modules aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11.
Software & Data Management
Control and evaluation are performed via the proprietary UNICORN™ software platform, which provides method-driven workflow management, real-time chromatogram visualization, automatic peak integration, and customizable reporting templates. All raw data—including TCD voltage traces, temperature logs, gas flow profiles, and calibration history—are stored in a secure, timestamped database with version-controlled backups. Export formats include CSV, PDF, and XML for LIMS integration. Software validation documentation (IQ/OQ/PQ protocols) and cybersecurity assessments (per IEC 62443-3-3) are available upon request. Remote diagnostics and firmware updates are supported over secure TLS connections.
Applications
- Protein content determination in dairy, infant formula, and plant-based alternatives using the 6.38 or 5.70 nitrogen-to-protein conversion factors.
- Quality control of compound feeds and premixes—ensuring compliance with EU Regulation (EC) No 767/2009 and AAFCO guidelines.
- Verification of nitrogen claims in organic fertilizers and slow-release urea formulations per ISO 20146 and EN 12944.
- Stability testing of nutraceuticals and functional foods under accelerated shelf-life conditions.
- Method transfer and harmonization across multi-site laboratories operating under ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.
FAQ
Does the rapid MAX N exceed require wet chemistry or acid digestion?
No. It uses only dry combustion—no sulfuric acid, catalysts, or distillation apparatus are involved.
Can it analyze viscous or volatile liquid samples without pre-treatment?
Yes. The vertical crucible geometry and optimized ignition sequence enable direct analysis of undiluted milk, beer, wine, and soft drinks.
What is the typical lifetime of the EAS REDUCTOR® catalyst?
With EAS REGAINER® active regeneration, the catalyst maintains performance for ≥1,000 analyses before scheduled replacement.
Is helium required as carrier gas?
No. Argon is the default and recommended carrier gas; helium is available as an optional configuration for specific regulatory or sensitivity requirements.
How is system suitability verified during routine operation?
Automated daily checks include blank signal stability, standard recovery verification (using certified glutamic acid), and retention time consistency—all logged and reportable.
